Due to unscheduled maintenance between Blenheim and Picton, our train is unable to travel on a small section of the line while repairs take place. We are very pleased to advise that the Coastal Pacific service will go ahead as planned however a 25-minute portion of your journey, between Blenheim & Picton, will be replaced by Bus.
If you are starting your journey from Picton, you are able to check in at the train station as usual and will be advised by train staff on the location of our private bus transfer.
For those doing a day return from Christchurch, you will have your break time in Blenheim. The station is in the centre of town, so lots of time to explore.
Discover the fascinating history of Christchurch on a half day city sightseeing tour. Take in the sights of the central city and its surrounds and see how this beautiful city is recovering from the devastating 2011 earthquake.
Step on board a classic open top double decker for a one-hour bus tour around central Christchurch. Your guide will tell you about the history of the city from its pioneering days to the present day. You will view some of the areas affected by the earthquakes, see how Christchurch is preserving some of its iconic heritage buildings and learn about the latest plans for restoration of the inner city.
Experience the natural beauty of Hagley Park, the Avon River and Botanic Gardens, as well as the recently reopened New Regent Street with its distinctive Spanish Mission style architecture, and the Re:START mall, an innovative development created entirely out of shipping containers!
Following your Christchurch city tour, we head towards the picturesque seaside village of Sumner where there is time to explore the beach and its interesting rock formations. From there we travel up the Port Hills to the historic Sign of the Takahe, a listed heritage building where you will enjoy panoramic views overlooking Christchurch City, the port of Lyttelton, the Canterbury Plains and the Southern Alps.
On the return journey we visit Mona Vale, one of Christchurch's most spectacular gardens. Take a leisurely stroll around the park and see why Christchurch is known as 'the Garden City'.
Useful tips: The first hour of this tour is by open top double decker bus with covered seating available downstairs. The last two hours of the tour are in a closed top double decker vehicle.
Tour details
Half day tour
Operates daily
Departs and returns: Rolleston Avenue
Tour includes
Hagley Park, Avon River and Botanic Gardens
Christchurch Cathedral and new Cardboard Cathedral
Bridge of Remembrance
Canterbury Museum and Arts Centre
Re: START shipping container mall
